First published in 1990. American as well as British students will find much that is interesting and illuminating in this British view of the Reagan presidency. David Mervin writes as an experienced American politics specialist whose study includes first-hand observation in the United States. Putting aside policy substance and concentrating on effectiveness in using the political process, Mervin portrays Reagan's presidential record more favorably than may be common in the British community.

This is a new study and provides an examination of the American presidency centred on Ronald Reagan's tenure of office. The popular image of Ronald Reagan is one of an unintelligent, bumbling, retired B-movie act. This stereotype is challenged in this analysis, which argues that Reagan was not only one of the most popular of the post-war presidents but also one of the most effective in achieving key policy objectives in the economy and defence.